Concor in talks with global shipping majors for JV

MUMBAI: In an effort to include a shipping company as part of its value-chain, state-owned inland transport services provider, Container Corporation of India ( Concor) is likely to ink a joint venture ( JV) with global shipping majors for catering to exim trade requirements of shippers, a top company official said.

"We are in talks with various shipping companies to form a JV which will enable us to provide international freight logistics services catering to exim trade requirements of shippers," Concor's Chief General Manager (Western Region), P K Agrawal, told PTI here.

Presently, Concor is negotiating with various shipping majors and with non-vessel operating common carrier (NVOCC) companies, he said, adding the proposed JV will take place within a year.

"In addition, as a part of our overall strategy of expansion, an entry into the shipping business will complement our position as a multi-model logistics service provider," Agrawal said.

"The idea behind this endeavour is to involve shipping companies in our logistical network of Inland Container Depots (ICDs) and Container Freight Stations (CFS), so that we can provide end-to-end solutions," Agrawal said.

Concor uses its container train rail network to provide logistical support and involvement of shipping companies would widen its base in the country, he said.

Presently, Concor is the market leader having the largest network of 59 ICDs/CFSs in India.